What makes a perfect Sunday morning treat, a moist and flavorful cinnamon raisin bread pudding made with day-old bread and sweet raisins, perfect for a quick and easy homemade breakfast or brunch, save this idea for a delicious weeknight dinner alternative.

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Introduction

Imagine a warm, comforting dessert that’s both easy to make and bursting with flavor. Cinnamon raisin bread pudding is a creative twist on traditional bread pudding, using everyday ingredients like stale bread, eggs, and cinnamon to create a masterpiece. This recipe is perfect for those looking to impress with minimal effort, as it combines the simplicity of a bread-based dessert with the allure of cinnamon and raisins. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a beginner in the kitchen, this cinnamon raisin bread pudding is sure to become a favorite, offering a delightful blend of textures and tastes that will keep you and your guests coming back for more.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of cinnamon, raisins, and the richness of eggs and butter creates a perfectly balanced flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. Plus, the ingredients are easily found in most kitchens, making it accessible to everyone.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive outcome, the preparation of cinnamon raisin bread pudding is surprisingly straightforward. It involves simple steps like tearing bread, mixing ingredients, and baking, which can be managed by anyone with basic kitchen skills.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: What sets this recipe apart is the impressive presentation and the depth of flavor it achieves with such minimal effort. It’s perfect for special occasions or everyday desserts, offering a ‘wow’ factor without requiring hours of preparation.

Key Ingredients

The core of this recipe lies in its key ingredients: stale cinnamon raisin bread, eggs, milk, butter, cinnamon, and raisins. The stale bread is crucial as it absorbs the liquid ingredients better than fresh bread, leading to a moist and fluffy pudding. Eggs act as a binder, while milk and butter add richness and moisture. Cinnamon provides a warm, comforting flavor, and raisins add natural sweetness and chewiness. Practical substitutions can include using other types of stale bread or nuts for added texture, but the classic combination of cinnamon raisin bread with its inherent spices and sweetness is hard to beat.

Instructions

1. Step 1: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). Tear the cinnamon raisin bread into small pieces and place them in a large mixing bowl. In a separate bowl, whisk together eggs, milk, melted butter, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt until well combined.
2. Step 2: Pour the wet ingredients over the bread, making sure each piece is coated. Let it sit for about 10 minutes to allow the bread to absorb the liquid. Then, fold in the raisins.
3. Step 3: Transfer the bread mixture to a baking dish and smooth the top. You can add additional cinnamon or raisins on top for extra flavor and texture.
4. Step 4: Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the pudding is set. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. You can serve it warm, topped with a caramel sauce, whipped cream, or vanilla ice cream for added indulgence.

Handy Tips

• Use day-old bread for the best results, as it absorbs liquid better than fresh bread. If you only have fresh bread, try drying it out in a low-temperature oven for a few minutes before using.
• Don’t overmix the bread with the wet ingredients, as this can lead to a dense pudding. A gentle fold is all you need.
• Experiment with spices and add-ins like nuts or chocolate chips to create different variations of the bread pudding.

Heat Control

For this recipe, maintaining the right oven temperature is crucial. Bake the pudding at 350°F (175°C) to ensure it cooks evenly and doesn’t burn on the outside before it’s fully set on the inside. The baking time may vary depending on your oven and the size of your baking dish, so keep an eye on it after 30 minutes and check for doneness by inserting a knife into the center. If the knife comes out clean, the pudding is ready.

Crunch Factor

The desired texture of cinnamon raisin bread pudding is moist and fluffy on the inside with a crunchy, caramelized top. To achieve this, make sure not to overbake. The top should be golden brown, and the edges might be slightly more toasted than the center. If you prefer a crunchier top, you can broil the pudding for an extra minute or two after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• For an extra crispy top, sprinkle a layer of brown sugar over the pudding before baking. This will caramelize and add a satisfying crunch.
• Use high-quality cinnamon for the best flavor. Saigon cinnamon, in particular, has a warm, sweet flavor that pairs perfectly with raisins.
• Let the pudding rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, making each serving more moist and flavorful.

Storage Tips

• Leftover bread pudding can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat it in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
• For longer storage, consider freezing the pudding. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen pudding will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
• When storing, it’s best to use airtight containers to keep the pudding fresh and prevent it from drying out.

Gift Packaging Ideas

Cinnamon raisin bread pudding makes a wonderful gift, especially during the holidays or for special occasions. Consider packaging it in decorative tin containers or jars, wrapped with a ribbon and a gift tag. You can also include a packet of cinnamon or a small jar of caramel sauce as a complementary gift. For a more rustic look, wrap the pudding in parchment paper and tie it with twine, adding a sprinkle of cinnamon on top for a personal touch.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Try adding a pinch of nutmeg or cardamom to the pudding for a unique twist on the traditional cinnamon flavor.
• Creative toppings: Instead of the usual caramel sauce, top your bread pudding with a dollop of whipped cream, a scoop of vanilla ice cream, or even a sprinkle of sea salt for a salty-sweet contrast.
• Ingredient swaps: Substitute the raisins with cranberries or cherries for a fruity twist, or use different types of milk like almond or soy milk for a non-dairy version.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If your pudding turns out too dry, it might be overbaked. Try reducing the baking time or covering the top with foil to prevent overbrowning. If it’s too wet, it might not have been baked long enough or the bread wasn’t stale enough.
• Ingredient replacements: If you’re out of a particular ingredient, don’t worry. You can substitute eggs with flax eggs, use coconut milk instead of regular milk, or even omit the raisins if you don’t have them on hand.
• Over/undercooking signs: Keep an eye on your pudding while it’s baking. If the top starts to brown too quickly, cover it with foil. If it’s not browning at all, you might need to bake it for a few minutes longer.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the bread pudding for up to 2 months. Thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat as needed.
• Is it gluten-free? The traditional recipe uses wheat bread, which contains gluten. However, you can make a gluten-free version by using gluten-free bread.
• Can I double the recipe? Absolutely. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to adjust the baking time slightly. A larger pudding might need an extra 10-15 minutes in the oven.

Conclusion

Cinnamon raisin bread pudding is a versatile and delicious dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. With its comforting blend of cinnamon, raisins, and moist bread, it’s sure to become a favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different spices, toppings, and ingredients to make it your own. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, this recipe is a great way to explore the world of desserts with ease and creativity. So go ahead, give it a try, and enjoy the warm, fuzzy feeling that comes with sharing a homemade treat with loved ones.